Learner drivers to be allowed on motorways from June

Learner drivers will be allowed to take lessons on motorways in England, Scotland and Wales from June this year.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) this week confirmed that the law would be changed following a consultation on the matter last year. Announcing the decision on Thursday, the DVSA said that it would help improve learners’ knowledge and ensure more drivers know how to use motorways safely.
At the moment, drivers can only have motorway lessons after they have passed your driving test. The changes to the law will come into effect on June 4, until then it will remain illegal for learners to drive on motorways.
Motorway lessons will be entirely voluntary and won’t form part of the driving test.
It will be up to instructors to decide if students are competent enough for them. Learners will only be allowed onto motorways if they are accompanied by an approved driving instructor and driving a car fitted with dual controls. The change in the law also only applies to car drivers, learner motorcyclists still won’t be allowed on motorways.
Announcing the move, the DVSA said: “The changes are being made to allow learner drivers to get broader driving experience before taking their driving test; get training on how to join and leave the motorway, overtake and use lanes correctly; practise driving at higher speeds and understand motorway specific traffic signs.”
Motorway lessons are also expected to educate drivers on what to do if a vehicle breaks down on a motorway.